Standards to enter the Sand Sculpture Contest at the Hueneme Beach Festival this weekend are low in a most welcoming way: No experience necessary. The competition begins Sunday at 9 a.m., and if you're still a little unsure of your beach-carving skills, the festival will offer a demonstration and tips at noon Saturday by Ojai artist Dennis Shives. Participants compete in one of two categories (individuals or teams of up to 10 people): "Corporate/Business/Government," vying for a trophy; or "Family, Friends, Nonprofits," vying for a $1,000 prize for first place, $600 for second place and $300 for third. All entrants are eligible for a $100 honorable mention prize.

The almost-end-of-summer beach party also will offer live music, a car show, vendor and community booths, a children's area, games, rides and food.

On Saturday, the musical lineup includes Skinny Little Twits at 11 a.m., Bella Donna (Stevie Nicks tribute) at 1:30 p.m. and Captain Cardiac and the Coronaries at 4 p.m. On Sunday, bands are Forte (featuring Oxnard High School music students) at 11 a.m., Sgt. Pepper at 1 p.m. and Soul City Survivors at 4 p.m.

Hours for the 13th annual Toni Young Hueneme Beach Festival are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at Hueneme Beach Park, 550 E. Surfside Drive, Port Hueneme. The Sand Sculpture Contest will take place 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, with judging at 1 p.m. and an awards ceremony at 3 p.m. For information about entering the competition, visit huenemesand.com. Admission and parking are free. The festival website is huenemebeachfest.org.